ESCONDIDO  Each made the Escondido High JV as a freshman and advanced to the varsity the next season. Now, into their senior year, Amber Kelly and Alex Washington share duties as team captains.

With Kelly as the setter and Washington an outside hitter, their bond also extends to being a potent point-producing combination for the Cougars.

“We’ve been really motivated this season,” Washington said. “We’ve set goals to win (Avocado East) league. That’s a good opportunity, and we’re working really hard at getting it. Every point matters to us, and we work our hardest.”

In the Scripps Ranch Tournament last weekend, the Cougars reached the quarterfinals. On the season, they have a 13-10 record with the league schedule just under way.

“We want to set a good example for everyone, especially for next year, when we need people to be leaders and continue the tradition every year,” Kelly said. “It’s about playing with heart. That’s the biggest thing. You always have to play with heart and passion.”

In the progression of senior leaders, the two follow Katie Sylakowski, now at the Naval Academy, and Jelisa Navarette from last year’s graduating class.

“It’s really exciting,’’ Washington said. “We remain calm when things aren’t going right and make sure to keep our heads in the game. We want it to be the best not only for us, but our team. We try to make sure we’re good leaders and good players, that we follow what we say.’’

Kelly and Washington, who first began acquainted at Rincon Middle School, also each compete in different athletic endeavors year-round while keeping their prime focus on volleyball.

“I love the multi-sport athletes, the more the merrier for me,’’ said Escondido coach Lori Becker, celebrating her 25th year at the school. “I encourage it. You are going to be a better athlete if you can do other things.’’

When Kelly first arrived on campus, Becker assessed her athletic abilities and quickly determined that she should be a setter.

“Amber has an incredible first step to the ball, and she chases down everything,’’ Becker said. “She’s always been very quick and a good leader, not a loud leader, just leading by example. She’s just gotten better and better every year.’’

Kelly also plays soccer for the Cougars as a defender, and after a year away, she expects to return to track in the spring to compete in the 400-meter run and the 4 x 400 relay.

Washington, who participates on the school dance team, is due back as well in the same running events with Kelly as well as the long jump following a break last year.

Her leaping ability also pays off in volleyball with kills.

“Alex is another one who has put a lot of time and effort into her volleyball,’’ Becker said. “She has progressed to be one of our top hitters this year. She’s had to work hard, and she just set her mind to it.’’

From the senior ranks, Carly Bakken also starts, and Nikki Alderman has been a chief contributor. In all, the roster has 10 players who have been involved in the program for four years.

With Kelly and Washington to guide the way.

“They’re good friends,’’ Becker said. “They know what it takes to win, and they’re good leaders.’’